Workplace discrimination often starts in the hiring process

Some people in Texas take the view that hard work will bring job opportunities and career growth to people regardless of their race. Although success in the workplace requires dedication and skill development, data strongly indicates that blacks and Latinos face discrimination as soon as they even apply for jobs. Applicants from these groups receive fewer chances to interview, which translates into fewer job offers and reduced career potential.

A meta study conducted by university researchers that reviewed 28 field studies going back to 1989 showed that employers called white job applicants for interviews 36 percent more often than black applicants. Employers favored white job seekers with callbacks 24 percent more often than Latinos who applied for jobs. The researchers concluded that in 25 years, blacks had experienced no improvements in racial discrimination although Latinos had made some gains at the point of hire.

The apparent hiring discrimination limits job opportunities for members of these races. People have a lower chance of finding an ideal job in their area when their choices are limited by discrimination. The reduced pool of available jobs likely undermines the bargaining power of black or Latino candidates to negotiate better salaries.

A person who has questions about racial discrimination could ask an attorney for advice. An attorney could inform an employer about best practices for avoiding discrimination claims. An employee impacted by hiring discrimination, on-the-job harassment or wrongful termination could also seek legal help. An attorney could evaluate the evidence to see if laws were violated. When appropriate, an attorney could initiate a legal claim against an employer and pursue damages, such as lost pay and benefits.